Purpose: This Instruction Memorandum (IM) transmits the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) “Zero Tolerance” Policy regarding inappropriate use of the Internet. This policy applies to all employees, contractors, volunteers, and other individuals (hereafter referred to as “employees”) who are provided access to the Internet through the BLM’s network.

Policy/Action: BLM employees are prohibited from using the Internet at any time for activities that are illegal, or that are inappropriate or offensive to coworkers or the public. Creating, viewing, storing, downloading, transmitting, or intentionally receiving communications, files, or documents that could be interpreted as being intimidating, harassing, unlawful, or containing hostile, degrading, sexually explicit, pornographic, discriminatory, or otherwise offensive references or remarks that ridicule others on the basis of race, creed, religion, color, sex, disability, age, national origin or sexual orientation is expressly forbidden.

Any BLM employee who is found violating this policy will receive appropriate disciplinary action (which may include removal from Federal service) in accordance with 370 DM 752.

Background: Internet access and e-mail technology are resources that the BLM provides each employee to assist in the accomplishment of official business. It is also the policy of the BLM that employees, whose job performance can be enhanced through use of the Internet, be provided access and become proficient in its capabilities. Access to the Internet provides employees with the opportunity to locate and use current and historical data from multiple sources worldwide in their decision-making processes.

BLM employees are encouraged to develop the skills necessary to effectively utilize these tools in the performance of their jobs.

IM No. 2004-116, dated March 1, 2004, describes what is considered acceptable use of the Internet. The DOI’s policy on acceptable use is available on the DOI home page and may be viewed through Internet Explorer at: http://www.doi.gov/footer/doi_aup.html%25.

Time Frame: This policy is in effect immediately with the release of this IM.

Budget Impact: None.

Manual/Handbook Sections Affected: None.

Coordination: This IM was coordinated between the Human Resources and Information Technology Directorates.

Contact: Any questions regarding this policy should be addressed to Tracy Ware on (202) 501-6723.